Swabian Alb places of interest

Around the Winter country hotel you can find some of the most impressive Swabian Alb places of interest, which will make your holiday with us unforgettable. Our location in Gomadingen is the ideal starting point for exploring the nature, history and culture of the region. Whether spectacular caves, fairy-tale castles or roaring waterfalls – many highlights and tips are just a short drive away.

Walking, cycling, caves, castles and nature in the Alb

Source of the Lauter and the Lauter Valley

The source of the Lauter is a 5-minute walk from the hotel

The source of the Lauter in Offenhausen is an idyllic highlight among the excursion destinations of the Swabian Alb. This is where the Lauter has its origin, right next to the former Offenhausen monastery, which today houses parts of the Marbach State Stud. The clear water and peaceful surroundings invite you to linger and relax – a perfect place for nature lovers and those seeking tranquillity.

The best for you: The source is located just a maximum 5-minute walk away from us at the Landhotel Winter and is an ideal starting point for your hikes and walks through the wonderful surroundings.

From here, the Große Lautertal extends to the Danube and is one of the most beautiful river valleys in Southern Germany. The Lauter meanders through an impressive landscape with rolling hills, green meadows and striking limestone cliffs. Along the valley you will find numerous castle ruins such as Hohengundelfingen Castle, Derneck Castle and Hohenhundersingen Castle, which give you fascinating insights into the medieval history of the region.

The valley is a paradise for active holidaymakers: whether hiking, cycling or on a canoe trip – the excellently signposted paths offer spectacular views and unforgettable nature experiences. The source of the Lauter and the Grosses Lautertal valley combine peace, pristine beauty and history, and are an absolute must when you are looking for special places to visit in the Swabian Alb!

Marbach Main and State Stud

The oldest state stud farm in Germany

The Marbach State Stud is the oldest state stud in Germany and a true landmark of our region. Since its founding in 1514, Marbach has stood for a centuries-old tradition that combines history, elegance and a love of horses. It is an absolute highlight and a popular Place of interest on the Swabian Alb.

You can explore the impressive grounds, historic stables and sprawling pastures on a relaxed walk. The stud is a place where nature and culture merge in a unique way. Special highlights include the regularly scheduled events such as the famous stallion parades. If you want to delve deeper into the world of horse breeding, you can also book exciting tours and guided visits on site.

Right around the corner The best for your stay with us: The stud farm is just a short distance away. You can reach this historic destination from your room at the Landhotel Winter in just a few minutes by car. A must for horse fans and anyone who wants to experience the special atmosphere of the Alb up close!

Lichtenstein Castle the day-trip destination

The Lichtenstein Castle perches spectacularly on a rock and is considered one of the finest destinations on the Swabian Alb. Württemberg's „fairytale castle“ captivates visitors with its romantic architecture and brings the age of chivalry to life during a tour of the historical rooms.

From us at the Landhotel Winter, you can reach the castle in just about 10 minutes by car. A special benefit for you: with the AlbCard, which you receive free of charge from us as our house guest, you can visit the castle and enjoy the special view over the Echaz valley.

A short way for an unforgettable experience – perfect for your holiday with us!

Fairy-tale castle of the Swabian Alb

Wimsener Höhle & the Glastal

When you stay with us at the Landhotel Winter, one of the most fascinating natural wonders of the Swabian Alb lies almost directly on your doorstep: the Wimsener Höhle. It is a place where time seems to stand still and earth history comes alive. As the only show cave in Germany that you can actively explore by boat, it offers you an experience that is both mystical and calming.

Your adventure begins at the idyllic Wimsen Mill. As soon as you step onto the boat, you glide smoothly on the crystal-clear water of the Zwiefalter Ach into the mountain. The ferryman steers you about 70 metres deep into the branching cave system while telling you the history of this natural monument's creation, which dates back over 1.5 million years. The silence inside the „Friedrichshöhle“ – named after Elector Friedrich of Württemberg – is impressive. The gentle light is reflected on the damp limestone walls of the UNESCO Global Geopark.

Nature experience of the Swabian Alb

Tübingen

university town on the Neckar

When you spend your holiday with us at the Landhotel Winter on the Swabian Alb, unspoilt nature lies right at your feet. However, if alongside the peace and quiet of the biosphere reserve you also fancy some vibrant urban history, we highly recommend a trip to the beautiful university town of Tübingen. Only about a 40-minute drive separates our tranquil Gomadingen-Offenhausen from this history-laden gem on the Neckar, which is undoubtedly worth a visit at any time of year.

Tübingen captivates above all with its impressive architecture, which transports you straight back to centuries past. Because the historic old town remained almost completely intact during the Second World War, today you can stroll through one of Germany's best-preserved medieval townscapes. Particularly striking is the famous Neckarfront with its brightly painted timber-framed houses and the prominent yellow Hölderlin Tower, which are reflected in the water as traditional punts glide gently by. A walk up to Hohentübingen Castle also rewards you with sweeping views over the winding alleys and red roofs of the town all the way to the escarpment of the Swabian Alb.

After a day full of new impressions, cultural discoveries and the lively bustle of Tübingen's cafés, returning to our house feels like taking a deep breath. You leave the hustle and bustle of the city behind and immerse yourself in the peaceful atmosphere of the Alb. This is how the urban experience and rural comfort combine with us to create a well-rounded, harmonious stay that can be experienced with all the senses.

Bear Cave in the Swabian Alb

A journey into the underworld of the Alb

The Bear Cave near Sonnenbühl-Erpfingen is one of the most famous visitor attractions on the Swabian Alb and offers you a fascinating underground experience. The cave system consists of the Karlshöhle, discovered in 1834, and the Bärenhöhle, found in 1949, which can now be visited together.

The cave owes its name to the impressive finds of numerous cave bear skeletons, which sought shelter here over 20,000 years ago. Inside the cave, alongside a fully reconstructed bear skeleton, you can also marvel at many other bones and skulls. But it is not just the history that is exciting: the cave impresses with wonderful stalactite formations, which are atmospherically illuminated along the approximately 271-metre-long path.

Short distances and your benefits: From us at the Landhotel Winter, you can reach the Bear Cave in just about 20 minutes by car. A great extra for your stay: as our hotel guest, you enjoy special benefits with your AlbCard when visiting this impressive natural wonder.

Hohenzollern Castle

A truly regal experience

The Hohenzollern Castle is undoubtedly one of the most impressive excursion destinations on the Swabian Alb. As the ancestral seat of the Prussian royal house and the Princes of Hohenzollern, it towers visibly atop Mount Zoller and offers an unrivalled panoramic view across the entire region.

When exploring the castle complex, you delve into around 1,000 years of architectural and family history. Today's fortress was rebuilt in the 19th century in the neo-Gothic style and captivates visitors with its magnificent halls, the historic treasury housing the Prussian royal crown, and the intricately designed chapels. Whether you stroll through the expansive grounds or tour the lavish staterooms, the castle exudes a very special, almost fairytale-like charm that captivates visitors from all over the world.

Perfect for a day trip: from your room at the Landhotel Winter, you can reach Hohenzollern Castle in just around 45 minutes by car. The drive takes you through the beautiful landscape of our Alb directly to this historic stronghold. A visit up here is the ideal way to combine culture and nature at the highest level.

Experience history up close and let yourself be enchanted by the regal atmosphere!

Outletcity Metzingen

Discover Europe's largest outlet! The Outletcity Metzingen offers its guests over 170 premium and luxury brands in flagship outlet stores, with an outstanding selection of products and discounts of up to -70% all year round. In addition to the biggest international designers, brands from the worlds of accessories, beauty, home & living, toys, jewellery, confectionery and footwear ensure an all-round first-class shopping experience. At Europe’s largest outlet, everyone can find just what they’re looking for, all in one place.

Shopping in Europe's largest outlet

Urach Waterfall

If you want to experience the nature of our region, the Urach Waterfall is an absolute must. It is considered one of the most beautiful and popular spots in the Swabian Alb. Here, the water of the Brühlbach plunges spectacularly into the valley from a height of 37 metres over a prominent tufa limestone ledge – a sight that has its very own charm at any time of year.

The route to the waterfall is ideal for a relaxed trip. From the hiking car park, a flat, family-friendly path leads along the gurgling stream directly to the foot of the waterfall. Those who want to go a bit further can climb up via steps to the side of the fall. Once at the top, the beautiful high waterfall meadow awaits you, which is perfect for a short break in the middle of nature.

Right on our doorstep: From Hotel Winter you can reach the hiking car park (Maisental) in Bad Urach in just about 15 to 20 minutes by car. That makes the waterfall the perfect destination for a half-day trip or an extended walk in the fresh Alb air.

Be inspired by the power of the water and the tranquillity of the forest – a real highlight for your holiday on the Alb!

A natural spectacle of the Swabian Alb

The Blautopf in Blaubeuren

A magical natural wonder

The Blautopf Blaubeuren is home to one of the most fascinating visitor attractions in the Swabian Alb. Known for its glowing, deep blue water, this karst spring is the entrance to a vast, mysterious cave system. Famous legends, such as that of the „Fair Lau“, also entwine around the mystical spring pool.

From us at the Landhotel Winter, you can reach this natural wonder in just around 35 minutes by car. A walk around the crystal-clear water, combined with a visit to the historic old town and the monastery, makes your trip perfect.

Hiking and cycling

Experience nature in the "Hochgehberge" mountains"

The Swabian Alb is a paradise for hikers and cyclists who love nature and exercise. With its rolling hills, impressive rock formations, picturesque valleys and sweeping views, the region offers countless opportunities for active recreation. Whether it is leisurely walking, challenging mountain tours or varied cycling trips – everyone gets their money's worth on the Swabian Alb.

Particularly popular are the „hochgehberge“, a collection of premium hiking trails that are perfectly waymarked and lead walking enthusiasts through the most scenic corners of the Alb. The „hochgehberge“ combine nature experiences with cultural highlights – from idyllic valleys such as the Großes Lautertal to historic castles, imposing rock outcrops and picturesque panoramas. Each trail is unique and promises impressive experiences in nature.

Cyclists will also find ideal conditions on the Swabian Alb. From leisurely tours through valleys like the Lautertal to challenging routes for mountain bikers, there is something for every ability. E-bikers can also explore the region with ease, as numerous charging stations ensure a relaxed ride.

Walking and cycling on the Swabian Alb mean pure enjoyment of nature – and the „hochgehberge“ trails make every trip an unforgettable experience.